Employers are seeking a settled government to inform job creation decisions, according to the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) chief economic adviser, Dr John Philpott.

Philpott says: “While the post-General Election political uncertainty is of evident concern to the financial markets, life goes on much as usual in the real economy of business and commerce. But employers are looking for a lasting political settlement and, in particular, clarity on the shape of economic and employment policy that will help inform decisions about staffing levels. Without this, hopes for any marked improvement in job prospects later this year will be dashed. 

“Although we would not expect the full detail of economic and employment policy to emerge before a formal Budget statement, whoever forms the next government should publish an immediate outline policy statement with particular reference to the timing of deficit reduction measures, plans for any change to employers’ National Insurance contributions, and the scope of welfare to work policy.”